DARTFORD MP Gareth Johnson helped ring in a new chapter for a parish church after visiting its newly restored bells.

He visited St Mary's Church in Church Road, Stone last Monday (May 2) along with Dartford Mayor Councillor Patrick Colemean.

The original bells, which were destroyed in 1638 when a bolt of lightning caused a fire, were replaced in time for the church's Easter service this year.

St Mary's Church parishioners raised the funds to replace the bells, making it the first time in 400 years that there is a working set of bells in the belfry.

Mr Johnson said: “Since becoming an MP I have had to turn my hands to many things but this is the first time I have taken part in bell-ringing.

“It is delightful that the sounds of bells will be peeling again across Stone and we can all enjoy this very traditional and beautiful sound. "It is also a marvellous example of the community coming together to raise funds for a good and historic cause.”